Desert Deals in Arizona

Hikers climbing Pinnacle Peak, Scottsdale.
Photo Courtesy: Scottsdale CVB

Hiking

One of the best ways to get a bird's-eye view of the Phoenix area is to hit the hills for a little hiking -- and the best part is, it's free Follow the locals and check out 2,889-foot Pinnacle Peak for a moderately difficult hike in North Scottsdale. Advanced hikers will want to check out the 2,700-foot Camelback Mountain, because this popular trek has a steep and tricky 1.16-mile summit trail. A favorite with families is the 2,608 foot Piestewa Peak, with its moderate 1.2-mile summit trail. But go early, because it gets crowded on the weekends.

Shopping

Just when you thought this destination couldn't get any better, remember that designer shops continue to move into this area in record numbers. With names like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors, Tiffany's, Cartier, Hugo Boss, Juicy Couture, Burberry, Coach, Jimmy Choo, Kate Spade and Ferragamo, the list goes on and on. Fashion Square in Scottsdale has all the above mentioned shops and dozens more. For outdoor boutique jewelry and clothing shops and restaurants, check out D.C.Ranch Marketplace, the Borgota, the Biltmore Fashion Park or Kierland Commons, and have your credit cards ready.

As a destination that's constantly updating and upgrading itself, there's one thing you can count on. The Phoenix-Scottsdale area continues to move full speed into the future, making this one desert oasis you'll want to keep an eye on. For more on desert deals in the Phoenix-Scottsdale area check out Karen Schaler's Travel Therapy Web site at www.traveltherapytrips.com.